When you hear of Surat, a city in the state of Gujrat, you often hear about how it's a hub for textile mills & is famous for diamond jewelry. What people often forget to mention is its beautiful spots & delicious food!
Here are 5 underrated places in Surat:
1. Bada Ganesh Temple, Surat
In the midst of residential societies of Alkapuri, Sumul Dairy Road, in Surat city is located the Bada Ganesh temple. It is in the Pushpa Kunj society. Though the name Bada, the temple is small. The Ganesh idol enshrined here is quite big. It is believed that the devotees who visit this place, their wishes get fulfilled.
The temple is closed for darshan between 11.00 am to 4.00 pm. If you come in your own vehicle, you might have a parking problem as the lanes here are narrow. Social activities like blood donation camps are arranged by the temple trust.
2. Zampa Bazaar, Surat
Zampa Bazaar, on the main station road, near the clock tower is an ideal place for non-vegetarian food lovers. it's a market place, bustling with people, vehicles are where the roadside eateries and restaurants are located. They are lined up, selling almost all imaginable varieties of grilled and curried chicken. The Muslim cuisine with huge handis of mutton and chicken recipes are common. The authentic sheekh kebabs and curries are also available. The rates of food items are quite reasonable.
The Chaap Keema stuffed in a bun is worth trying. Beautifully cooked meat with smoky flavors will make your mouth water. Apart from these, there is tongue, liver, kidneys, and the head, all curried.
But let me caution you about a few things. While moving around, you may land up at stalls selling beef. Therefore ask before ordering. If you are hygiene conscious, then you may feel a bit disappointed. The curries spilled all over the place and no attempt being made to clean up the mess till they close.
The people here are friendly and will welcome you politely. They will also answer your queries about this place. So, when in Surat, do visit this place in the late evening.
3. The Ambaji Temple, Surat
This temple of Amba goddess is located at Athwa Lines in Surat's posh area. On the right side of the temple flows the Tapi river. In the entire area, one can feel the holy vibes. While entering the temple precinct, you will see many stalls lined up selling religious items.
The temple has a white marble idol of Amba goddess with eight arms, the shakti or energy, is thronged by a large number of people. The goddess, seated on the tiger is one of the most worshipped deities. Mother Amba fulfills the wishes of her devotees.
Near the temple, you can eat the famous vada pav center and also a shop selling cane sugar juice. These two places are always crowded.
4. The Tapi pool, Chowk Bazaar, Surat
The 143-year-old Tapi bridge, also known as the Hope Pool, joins the two parts of the city. It is built on river Tapi. On one side is the main city and on the other side is Rander. This vehicular bridge is about one km long. It has got footpath for those who wish to walk across. There is also a shaded walking track for morning and evening walkers. There are benches kept at regular intervals for those who want to rest and relax.
One should visit this bridge early morning when there is less traffic movement to get some fresh air. The evening on this bridge is also good as you can see the splendid sunset.
5. The Gopi Talao, Navasari bazaar, Surat
Gopi talao (lake) was built 500 years back by Malik Gopi, a rich merchant. It is a circular lake, once used as a recreational and religious place. Then it went into ruin and decayed for years. It is now renovated by the Surat Municipal Corporation.
Gopi talao today is a pleasure resort with walking tracks, lawns, amphitheater, boating, water sports, rope bridge, and eateries. Plenty of greenery is seen as it's abounding with a number of shady trees. If you visit Surat and are looking forward to spending a splendid evening, then is the place for you.
Many people flock here in the evening. The entry fee is rupees 20 per head.
Surat is not just a commercial center for textiles, it's much more!
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